2021 GMC Canyon — Crew Cab Short Bed 2WD, Crew Cab Short Bed 4WD, and Crew Cab Long Bed 4WD only (no Extended Cab diesel rows, no Extended Cab rows for all engines shown separately)
⚠ Pending verification
Figures were extracted from the source below and are pending confirmation against the OEM towing guide.
Source: OEM towing guide — GMC towing guide (2021) · retrieved 2026-07-02
Max Towing Capacity
7,700
lbs / 3,493 kg
Engine Variants
3 variants
Trim Notes
Maximum 7,700 lbs requires 2WD Canyon Elevation Crew Cab short bed model with available 2.8L Duramax Turbo Diesel engine and Trailering Package. The 3.6L Gas V6 achieves 7,000 lbs across all configurations. The 2.5L Gas I4 is limited to 3,500 lbs.
⚠ Important
Peak 7,700 lb: 2.8L Duramax Turbo Diesel, Canyon Crew Cab Short Bed 2WD, 3.42 axle ratio, with Trailering Package (conventional ball hitch). Next-highest 7,550 lb: 2.8L Duramax Turbo Diesel, Canyon Crew Cab Short Bed 4WD or Crew Cab Long Bed 4WD, 3.42 axle ratio.
◆ Gear you may need
Always confirm against your door-jamb sticker & OEM towing guide before hauling. Ratings vary by exact configuration.
Different configuration? Look it up
The 7,700 lbs figure above is the properly-equipped maximum for this model year. For a specific trim, engine, or drivetrain, run your exact setup through the live tool:
Prose overview
The 2021 GMC Canyon carries a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 lbs when properly equipped, paired with a Class III hitch. As with every truck and SUV, the rating swings by engine, drivetrain, cab and bed configuration, and rear axle ratio — so two 2021 GMC Canyons on the same lot can be rated thousands of pounds apart. Match your trailer to the lowestrelevant limit (towing capacity, payload, GCWR, and hitch rating), and verify against the sticker inside the driver's-side door jamb.
Related tow ratings
2021 GMC Canyon towing FAQ
What is the maximum towing capacity of a 2021 GMC Canyon?
A properly equipped 2021 GMC Canyon is rated to tow up to 7,700 lbs. This maximum applies only to specific engine, axle, and tow-package combinations — most trims tow less.
What hitch class does the 2021 GMC Canyon need?
Based on its rated capacity, the 2021 GMC Canyon typically pairs with a Class III hitch. Always match the hitch to your loaded trailer weight and never exceed the vehicle's rated capacity.
Do I need a brake controller to tow with a 2021 GMC Canyon?
Most states require trailer brakes — and a brake controller — for trailers over 3,000 lbs loaded. A brake controller syncs the trailer's brakes with the vehicle's for safe, controlled stops.
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